A busy recent period for Sunderland rounds off with a clash against Leeds, with the Black Cats looking to end a dismal losing streak against a Leeds side they haven’t enjoyed hosting at this level.
Match News and Current Form
Juggling domestic and European commitments is proving to be a challenge for Sunderland, who may have stayed unbeaten in the UEFA Europa League with a 1-1 draw against Lech Poznań in midweek, but have lost each of their last four in the Premier League. That’s their longest losing run in this competition since December 2015, and has seen the Black Cats slump to the foot of the table thanks to their worst start to a league season since being relegated in 2016/17. Failing to move off the bottom of the table after this game would make pretty ominous reading for Régis Le Bris’ men, as six of the last eight sides to bring up the rear in the Premier League after eight rounds went on to be relegated.
Promoted alongside Sunderland in 2024/25, Leeds haven’t had the same kind of concerns this season, sitting in seventh pre-round - their highest standing after seven Premier League games since 2002/03. They’ll perhaps be tinged with a little disappointment that they’re not higher in the table having drawn four of their seven league games so far (W2, L1), but that’s nothing new for Daniel Farke’s men, as no Premier League side has drawn more games in 2026 than their 13. Another stalemate could be the ceiling of their ambitions here though, as Leeds have incredibly never won a Premier League game in this kick-off slot in eight attempts (D3, L5).
Head-to-Head History
Leeds have only lost one of their last eight top-flight visits to Sunderland (W6, D1), but a win in the last H2H at Elland Road affords the Black Cats the chance to win successive league meetings for the first time since 2006/07.
Hot Stats and Streaks
Seven of Sunderland’s last nine league games produced under 8.5 corners.
All five of the goals scored in Sunderland’s home league games this term came after half-time.
Leeds haven’t won any of their last nine Sunday-held Premier League away games (D3, L6).
Nine of Leeds’ last 12 away league matches saw both teams score.
Key Players to Watch and Missing Players
Granit Xhaka has a reputation for being an enforcer in midfield, but he’s actually been fouled the second-most times (13) of any Sunderland player in the Premier League this season. Leeds’ Anton Stach could be up against him and has committed a pre-round league-high 14 fouls amongst players yet to receive a yellow card!
Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey is in line to return here, while Leeds have no fresh injury concerns.
For all the latest team news, please check the Flashscore match centre.
Betting Analysis
A jaded Sunderland may have home advantage, but Leeds’ top-flight away record speaks for itself, so backing a Leeds win holds great appeal.
Author: Chris Wilson